Blog

What Exercises Can Help Flexible Flat Feet?

Flexible flat feet refers to a condition where the arch of the foot lies flat on the floor while standing, but reappears when the foot does not bear any weight. For some people, this condition can cause discomfort. Stretching and exercising the feet may help strengthen the arch and reduce pain. One of the exercises you can try is a heel raise. To do this stretch, stand in front of a wall with your feet shoulder-width apart and flat on the floor. You may put your hands on the wall for balance. Raise your heels as high as you can off the floor. Hold for 1-2 seconds and then slowly return to the starting position. Do two sets of 10-20 repetitions. For more information about exercises for flat feet, as well as other treatment options that may work for you, consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

  • Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
  • Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
  • Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Stretching Your Feet

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Common Symptoms of Stress Fractures

Stress fractures generally occur as a result of an injury that is caused by overusing the foot. A stress fracture is defined as a hairline crack in one of the metatarsal bones in the foot, and can be common among people who participate in running and jumping activities. Pain and discomfort may be felt in the center of the foot, which may also appear swollen. Mild relief may be found when the activity that caused the fracture is stopped, and the affected foot is frequently elevated. A proper diagnosis generally consists of having an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan performed, and is followed by implementing an effective treatment plan. This can consist of resting the foot for several weeks, walking with crutches, or wearing a cast. If you have endured a stress fracture, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment methods that will work for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Different Shoes For Various Sporting Activities

The type of shoes that are worn is important to consider while working out. An exercise routine may be hindered if shoes do not fit correctly, and potential foot problems may develop. There are different types of shoes that can be purchased for various sporting activities. Runners will benefit by knowing the amount of shock absorption that is needed, in addition to observing how the feet make contact with the ground. This can be identified by looking at old shoes, and noticing wear and tear patterns. For people that enjoy hiking, boots may be a better option than running shoes. It is beneficial if they are made of waterproof materials, and have adequate cushioning. If you have any questions about what type of shoes to purchase for preferred sporting activities, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to make the right choices. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Proper Shoe Fitting

Possible Symptoms of Neuropathy

The peripheral nerves control several responses in the body, including the sense of touch, muscle strength, and the ability to feel pain. Neuropathy indicates a loss of sensation in the feet and fingers, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of existing medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease. Additionally, excessive alcohol use and vitamin deficiency may lead to developing neuropathy. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can be a loss of balance, and many patients can experience shooting pain in the limbs. Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily regimen, and it may help to perform simple exercises that can increase muscle strength. If your feet are numb, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat neuropathy.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Neuropathy
scroll to top